A transcript of the media conversation with Blaise Nkufo

(On joining Seattle Sounders FC) “I am really happy. When I first met with Adrian (Hanauer) and Gary (Wright) I was really impressed with the facilities and really felt that they want me. It was my decision to make and we did the deal and I’m really proud to be a part of this team.”

(On the next months for him, with the World Cup and then Sounders) “A lot of goals, the next couple of weeks. I’m going to play in the World Cup. I just finished to play with Twente in the league and I need to be again focused for the World Cup, and the next will to be with the Sounders.”

(On what type of player he is and what the fans can expect to see) “I hope the best of me, of course. As a striker, they can expect a lot of goals. I need my team players crossing passes but I know what I can do for this team and I’m going to be focused on my skills; what I have done from the past and I wish to do that for the Sounders.”

(On impressions of Sounders FC teammates in training) “For me, I can’t judge really because I need to be on the field with the rest of the players. I wanted just to meet the players and staff again and I can feel that they are motivated. They lost their last game but it’s a great group. I think we can win with this group.”

(On trying to follow the Sounders) “I saw some news through the website. I read a little bit. But I was so focused on my competition. You just keep your head clear. But step by step, I’ll have time after the World Cup to know everything about the team.”

(On the differences between MLS and the Dutch league) “I don’t like to compare the leagues. Every league has qualities and strengths. But soccer is simple, just running after the ball and trying to play as a team and that’s what I’m looking for.”

(How long are you in town?) I leave two-three days more and I fly for Switzerland.

(On deciding to come to MLS) “I go with my family and I wanted to start a new life. I think I said a few weeks ago that I wanted to immigrate to live in this country. For me, I’m still fit and I try to give the possibility to play three years more. I think I can do it but for me, I would like to live here and that’s why I came here.”

(On expectations from fans being fair) “Of course people have expectations but I think my expectation is higher than the fans or anybody here. I know I have to work hard to show that I can do it because I have a name, of course, but I start from zero. I know it will not be simple but I’m ready. I’m ready.”

(On if his body can handle so many games this year) “The last years I’ve played so many games. I think I’m fit, fit enough for playing with the Sounders after the World Cup.”

(On Sounders FC fans) “I’ve heard that they really support the team. I think that’s really great and if every team can get some fans like that, it’s great. You can achieve a lot with the fans and they can be the twelfth man. I think you can achieve a lot.”